Coronavirus: Portsmouth's Gunwharf Quays shut aside from two stores as UK goes into lockdown

Prime minister Boris Johnson announced the latest measures in the fight against the coronavirus in a national address on Monday, including the closure of all non-essential shops.

Gunwharf Quays has announced that it will ‘largely close’ with just Boots the Chemist and Tesco Express remaining open.

A number of shops at the waterfront outlet centre had already shut last week.

A spokeswoman for Gunwharf Quays said: ‘We have taken the decision to largely close Gunwharf Quays, in line with government guidance, and it will remain closed until further notice.

‘Essential shops remain open - Boots the Chemist and Tesco Express.

‘Although we are now largely closed, our online community is open. We will be using our website, social channels and newsletter to stay in touch, and hopefully bring you some joy and light-relief in the difficult months ahead.

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‘Don’t be a stranger, visit us at the Gunwharf Quays website, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and register to receive our newsletter, which will mean you don’t miss out on developments.

She added: ‘A number of our restaurants and stores will still be operating online, so please do visit their websites where they will be able to fulfil online orders.

‘We look forward to welcoming you back to Gunwharf Quays just as soon as it is safe to do so.

‘Stay safe, stay home if you can, and look after each other.’

Follow all the latest coronavirus updates in our live blog here.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

Covid-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

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How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

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What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS